Morocco thrash Kenya 4-0, Algeria beat Senegal 2-0 in WAFCON 2026 opener

Morocco opened the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations with a commanding 4-0 victory over hosts Kenya in Rabat on Sunday. Ibtissam Jraidi scored twice, while Sakini Ouzraoui Diki and Maryame Atiq added the other first-half goals for the Atlas Lionesses. In the other opening match, Algeria defeated Senegal 2-0, with captain Marine Dafeur converting a penalty in the 42nd minute and debutant Melissa Bethi sealing the win in the 88th minute.

These results signal early intent from both Morocco and Algeria. Morocco, eager to overthrow reigning champions Nigeria, showed attacking depth by leading 3-0 at halftime. Algeria's win over Senegal highlights their competitiveness in Group A, setting up a crucial North African clash later in the week.

Looking ahead, Senegal faces Kenya on Thursday in a must-win Group A encounter, while Morocco takes on Algeria in a high-stakes neighbourly showdown. Group B kicks off Monday with South Africa versus Tanzania, followed by Ivory Coast against Burkina Faso. With Nigeria watching closely, which team's early form suggests the biggest challenge to their title defence?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/27/wafcon-2026-roundup-of-results-from-day-1-fixtures/